Synthetic biologists are redesigning genes, cells and organisms. They have the potential to revolutionize computing, fuels, bioremediation, medicine, treatment of infectious diseases, and just about any field that seeks to make life better. This has drawn the interest of many engineers and scientists. It has also drawn the interest of DARPA, a branch of the military, the government, environmentalists, organic farmers, and possibly even terrorists. The issues include but extend beyond this of the GMO debate such as health concerns and release of genes into the environment. Questions arise such as should information be released that could be potentially used to create biological weapons even if that information is needed by scientists? Should the military be funding and possibly setting the agenda for research? Do people have the right to create new forms of life. Could genetically reengineered bacteria become something we cannot control?
Below you will find many links that address the issues of biosafety and bioethics. Skim these sights and focus on three or four that you find most interesting.
At the bottom of the page you will find a place write a post. Using your research, answer this question: "Are the rewards offered by synthetic biology worth the risks?" Please back up your answer. Also, please respond to at least 5 of the posts made by your peers.
Please have your post and responses made by next Monday night.
Below you will find many links that address the issues of biosafety and bioethics. Skim these sights and focus on three or four that you find most interesting.
At the bottom of the page you will find a place write a post. Using your research, answer this question: "Are the rewards offered by synthetic biology worth the risks?" Please back up your answer. Also, please respond to at least 5 of the posts made by your peers.
Please have your post and responses made by next Monday night.
Ethics and Safety
Ethical Issues in Synthetic BiologyThe Promise and Perils of Synthetic Biology
"Four suggestions for addressing public concern regarding synthetic biology"
"Mapping the moral boundaries of biological engineering"
"Synthetic biology: enormous possibility, exaggerated perils"
Responsible conduct for synthetic biology
Synbio and DARPA
Synbio and war
Synbio and DIY genetic engineering
Biological risk assessment
Synthetic Life?
Bioethics.gov
SynBio What Challenges?
New genetic recipes: Cooking up trouble?
Security issues
SynBERC Guidelines
Screening out terrorists
Odds flu strain escapes
Carefully precautionary about synbio
Links about man-made mutant flu (H5N1)
Ecological Implications of Synthetic Biology
Regulating Gene Drives
iGEM Safety article
Are GMOs safe article from Slate